1996 Ford Escort Owner's Manual - Page 229

Driving with a Manual Transaxle Using the Clutch In order to start the vehicle, the clutch pedal must be fully depressed to the floor. Before starting the engine, make sure the vehicle is in Neutral and the parking brake is set. Do not drive with your foot resting on the clutch pedal and do not use the clutch to hold your vehicle at a standstill while waiting on a hill. These actions will seriously reduce clutch life. Shifting the Gears The gearshift for a manual transaxle is mounted on the floor. The gearshift can be in one of seven possible positions, as shown. The positions of the floor-mounted gearshift Backing up To shift into R (Reverse): 1. 2. Completely stop your vehicle. Depress the clutch pedal to the floor and place the gearshift lever in the Neutral position. Do not release the clutch pedal. 229